We all know the situation: You want to print an important document, but instead of printing, the printer returns an error, leaving you wondering what to do next. If you use a Cannon printer, one error you’re likely to run into sooner or later is Error code 5100. This error occurs when there’s an issue with the printer’s cartridge carrier.

Fortunately, troubleshooting error code 5100 is a quick and easy process — and in this post, we’ll walk you through all the steps you need to perform to get your Canon printer up and running.

Fix #1 – Replace the FINE cartridge

In most cases, the error code 5100 occurs when the cartridge is faulty or unsuitable for the Canon printer model you’re using. You can fix the problem by replacing the existing cartridge with a genuine FINE cartridge.

Here’s what to do:

• Ensure the printer is switched off and unplugged and then open its front cover
• Pull out the printer tray, and wait for the cartridge to move into the replacement position
• Gently push the FINE cartridge down until a clicking sound is heard. Now, pull out the cartridge
• Remove the new cartridge from its packaging, insert it into the holder all the way, and gently push the lever
• Finally, gently slide the paper tray into its place until it clicks or locks securely

Fix #2 – Resolve the issue of jammed paper

Jammed paper can also trigger the Canon printer error 5100. Here’s how you can fix a printer paper jam:

• Switch off the printer and unplug it
• Pull out the paper try and open the document cover
• Locate the jammed paper and gently remove it
• Make sure you retrieve all torn pieces
• Now reload the paper tray correctly and restart the printer

Check if the error is fixed. If not, try the next solution.

Fix #3 – Reset the printer’s ink cartridge

Here’s what you need to do to reset your Canon printer’s ink cartridge:

• Switch off the printer and unplug it
• Open the printer’s cartridge door and wait until the cartridge holder moves to the center
• Identify the printer cartridge you want to reset, gently press it down and then pull it out
• Locate this cartridge’s chip and reset it using a tool specifically designed for this cartridge model
• In the absence of a reset tool, try covering the chip’s contacts with a piece of tape for roughly 10 seconds. This often tricks the printer into thinking that you’ve popped in a brand-new cartridge
• Now reinsert the printer cartridge and close the cover
• Run a print test

Fix #4 – Clean your printer’s encoder strip

If the problem persists, try cleaning the encoder strip. Always use a soft, clean, and dry fabric to clean the encoder stripy. Once done, reinstall the encoder strip and check if the issue is fixed.

That’s it! Which fix worked for you?

We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below. If this post was helpful, please share it so that others can benefit.

And, oh, by the way, here’s an important tip to fix slow printing: Always keep your printer drivers up-to-date. If you’re wondering how to do that, we recommend using an advanced third-party tool such as Driver Updater.

Automatic driver update tools offer many benefits, the most important ones being:

• You can update device drivers automatically
• The software scans and updates all outdated or missing drivers at one go
• The tool picks the right drivers for your device and operating system, so you won’t have to worry about installing an incorrect driver by mistake
• Automatic driver updates are 100% safe

Driver Updater is one of the best driver update tools out there. Outbyte Driver Updater will give you access to a database of over 1 million drivers. It will regularly scan your PC, suggesting new driver versions to install. Driver Updater contains drivers for a variety of Windows devices. With just one click, you can update drivers in your system.

Step 1
Click here to Install and launch the app

Step 2
Scan all devices

Step 3
Install or update drivers automatically

 

Start Download